Barry Docks Link Road safety work: New traffic signals to be switched on (From Barry And District News)
Get involved: send your pictures, video, news and views by texting BAR to 80360, or email
us
Barry Docks Link Road safety work: New traffic signals to be switched on
1:50pm Thursday 18th October 2012 in News
WORK to install traffic signals at a notorious Barry accident spot - the scene of several fatal crashes - is due to be completed this week, with the lights operational from approximately 7am on Friday (October 19).
Essential testing of the lights, at the junction of Barry Docks Link Road, Coldbrook Road East and Argae Lane, will take place today (Thursday, October 18).
The scheme involved the construction and installation of new traffic islands, upgraded lighting, drainage and ducting, traffic signal equipment, new road signs and lining, and extensive resurfacing.
The lights will operate on the computerised MOVA signal control system, which uses vehicle sensors buried in the carriageway to optimise timings and improve traffic flow.
This scheme, promoted by the Vale Council, was supported and funded by a Road Safety Grant from the South East Wales Transport Alliance (Sewta).
Miles Punter, Council Director of Visible Services and Housing, said: “The primary benefits are to safely control traffic movements into and out of Coldbrook Road East and Argae Lane, whilst maintaining adequate traffic flows at the junction.
"The signals also provide for safe right turn manoeuvres out of Coldbrook Road East, thereby eliminating the need for vehicles to undertake illegal and dangerous u-turns on the Link Road."
Local ward member and council Leader, Cllr Neil Moore, said: “I would like to thank local residents and motorists for their patience in respect to the disruption caused by the temporary traffic management arrangements and safety measures.
"I am sure that this scheme will significantly enhance the safety of this vital route, so as to reduce the risk of serious accidents in the future.”
Ian Perry says...
3:46pm Thu 18 Oct 12
In Wales, the only solution engineers have is to install traffic lights at every possible location. They ignore the statistics here and abroad that show traffic lights at junctions increase the severity of accidents (when compared to alternatives to T junctions and crossroads) and do little to reduce the number of accidents at junctions.
It doesn't seem that anyone has responsibility for the safety of junctions - or roads like Cardiff Road, between Dinas Powys and Barry.
I'm pleased that the desire line of motorists is no longer blocked at this junction, but think that the council has wasted an opportunity to make the Vale safer - and yet more money.